HEM Foundation, Inc.

The HEM (Health Equity Matters) Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health outcomes and advancing health equity for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease and other hematologic conditions through education, community connection, and whole-person wellness.

Our work is rooted in Miami-Dade County, where we serve individuals and families throughout the county, including communities in North Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Gardens, Opa-locka, Liberty City, Little Haiti, Little Havana, Hialeah, Homestead, and surrounding neighborhoods. While our programs also reach individuals across South Florida, Miami-Dade remains a central focus of our community outreach, partnerships, and educational initiatives.

Our connection to the local sickle cell community is strengthened by our founder's clinical work as a hematology nurse practitioner at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, a major center of care for individuals with sickle cell disease. Many of the patients and families we aim to support live throughout Miami-Dade County and face challenges that extend well beyond their medical diagnoses.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects more than 100,000 people in the United States, with Florida home to one of the nation's largest affected populations. Beyond chronic pain, organ complications, and other medical challenges, individuals and families often navigate mental health concerns, healthcare disparities, stigma, caregiver burden, and barriers to comprehensive care. These challenges can be particularly significant in underserved communities.

At HEM Foundation, we believe that improving health outcomes requires caring for the whole person, not just the disease. Through evidence-based education, wellness experiences, scholarships, community partnerships, and advocacy, we equip individuals and families with practical tools that support physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being.

Our signature initiatives include:

• THRIVE: An educational health and wellness experience combining expert-led presentations, interactive learning, and practical mind-body wellness strategies.

• Sickle Cell Family Wellness Day: A free community event bringing together children, adults, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and community organizations for education, wellness activities, resources, and connection.

• Educational Workshops and Community Programs: Opportunities to improve health literacy, strengthen self-management skills, and promote whole-person well-being.

• Scholarships: Investments in education, leadership, and future advocates within the sickle cell community.

Since our founding, HEM Foundation has awarded 14 scholarships, provided free educational programming, developed community partnerships, and created opportunities that bridge healthcare with the everyday experiences of patients and families.

Your Give Miami Day donation directly supports our work in Miami-Dade County, helping us provide accessible educational programming, family wellness initiatives, scholarships, and community resources for individuals and families who need them most.

Together, we're building a community where individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease have the knowledge, resources, connection, and support to not just survive, but truly THRIVE.